His voice is even
more flat when he says, “Not sure what you mean. This is me.”

“You’re acting so detached and strange. This isn’t like
you.”

“Well, you don’t know me anymore.”

That response brings fury and betrayal roaring to the
surface again. “And whose fault is that, Zeke?” I grab a nearby mug with the
intention of throwing it at his head. He’s giving me worse mood swings than
Aunt Flo.

“We both know the
answer. Let’s not play guessing games.”

“You’re ridiculous. I don’t understand you at all,” I say.

“A lot happens in five years. You’re not the only one who’s
changed.” He gestures around the store.

“What is that supposed to mean? Are you upset about my
career choice?”

“Nah, that isn’t it.”

“What then? Let’s stop dancing around. You came here for a
reason,” I point out.

A flush races up his neck, painting the stubbled skin an
angry red. “All of this is proof you never needed me. Not like I fucking depend
on you.”

Harloe Rae is an Amazon Top 100 bestselling author. Her
passion for writing and reading has taken on a whole new meaning. Each day is
an unforgettable adventure.

Harloe is a Minnesota gal with a serious addiction to
romance. She’s always chasing an epic happily ever after. When she’s not buried
in the writing cave, Harloe can be found hanging with her hubby and son. If the
weather permits, she loves being lakeside or out in the country with her
horses.

Harloe is the author of Redefining Us, Forget You Not, Watch
Me Follow, GENT, and MISS. These titles are available on Amazon. Her upcoming
romance, MISS, releases September 28th.